Analyze an SDS

DOT Division 6.1: Toxic Substances

Division 6.1 is the DOT division for toxic (poisonous) materials: materials, other than gases, that are known to be so toxic to humans that they pose a health hazard during transportation, or that, from animal test data, are presumed to be toxic to humans.

How it is defined

  • Toxicity is assessed using oral LD50, dermal LD50 and inhalation LC50, and the most hazardous route sets the packing group.
  • Inhalation-hazard materials are called toxic inhalation hazard (TIH) or poison inhalation hazard (PIH) and carry extra marking and routing rules.
  • Many pesticides are in Division 6.1.

Summary of 49 CFR Parts 171 to 180. The regulations and the Hazardous Materials Table (49 CFR 172.101) control any shipment.

Label and placard

Colors
White background, black symbol
Symbol
Skull and crossbones

A white diamond with a skull and crossbones and the number 6.

Packing groups

PG I: very severe toxicity. PG II: serious toxicity. PG III: relatively low toxicity. The cut-offs are expressed in LD50 and LC50 values in 49 CFR 173.132. How packing groups work.

Common examples

  • Pesticides
  • Cyanides
  • Mercury compounds
  • Phenol
  • Toluene diisocyanate

How it relates to GHS

Broadly matches GHS acute toxicity Categories 1 to 3. The cut-offs are similar but not identical, so GHS and DOT classifications of the same material can differ.

DOT classes and GHS classes are assigned under different rules, so a product can have different severity labels in each. See also all GHS hazard classes.

Safe handling reminders

  • Prevent contact and breathing of dust or vapor.
  • Store locked or restricted to trained personnel.
  • Decontaminate surfaces and wash after use.

Where to find it on an SDS

Section 14 shows Division 6.1, UN number, packing group, and sometimes a hazard zone for inhalation hazards. Look in Section 14: Transport information. Hazard classification for the workplace is in Section 2. You can also see how a UN number points to a response guide on the UN and NA numbers page.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Division 6.1 material?

A Division 6.1 material is a DOT toxic (poisonous) material, shipped with a white skull and crossbones label. Pesticides and cyanides are common examples.

General reference only. It does not replace the supplier's SDS or the current federal regulations.